英语文摘：Terry's last-gasp block defends Chelsea's 1-1 draw against Hotspur

LONDON, Dec. 22 (Xinhua) -- Chelsea captain John Terry blocked Tottenham Hotspur's last shot with a desperate slide tackle on Thursday night and earned the Blues a 1-1 away draw in the Premier League's last clash before Christmas.

Terry, who was charged on Wednesday to have offended Queens Park Rangers player Anton Ferdinand with racist language, was given full support by manager Andre Villas-Boas, featuring the starting 11 in this eye-catching London Derby.

The club and England captain responded well in the game, especially when he cleared Emmanuel Adebayor's shot away on the line in the stoppage time, ensuring his side earn a point at White Hart Lane.

The home side Hotspur made a dream start in the eighth minute. Adebayor, the lone striker upfront, capitalised on Gareth Bale's deft pass to net the opening goal.

Chelsea, strong in mood and midfield battle, recovered to level the score after 15 minutes when England's fullback Ashley Cole fed Daniel Sturridge with a low cross before a cool finish from the young winger.

Both sides failed to break the deadlock in the remaining 70 minutes. Chelsea's Didier Drogba once hit the woodwork and Ramires also wasted a good chance after Juan Mata's free-kick made him unmarked in the area.

After the 17th round fixtures, Hotspur stood third in 35 points but with one game in hand. Chelsea was still in the fourth, two points less than the city's rival. Manchester City and United, both grabbing big victories on Wednesday, led the table in 44 and 42 points respectively.

The league's next round will be staged on Boxing Day.